Free Things to Do in San Diego

San Diego is an exciting city, but that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to have a fun time there. Take a look at some of our favorite free things to do in San Diego before planning your next outing! From beautiful parks to movies and farmers’ markets, there’s an option for everyone.

Best Free Things to Do in San Diego, CA

Balboa Park: Explore the best of nature and history by spending the day at Balboa Park. This historic park was originally called City Park, but was renamed after Spanish explorer Vasco Núñez de Balboa in 1915. It boasts 1,200 acres of land filled with gardens, walking paths, natural vegetation zones, and 17 museums to check out.

Children’s Pool: If you’re searching for things to do in San Diego with kids, the Children’s Pool in La Jolla is a great choice. Thanks to a seawall built to protect the shore from waves, this spot is perfect for kids to swim safely. Additionally, it’s known for being a favorite spot of harbor seals and sea lions. Seal Rock is located north of the beach and is home to hundreds of seals.

University of San Diego Art Galleries: If you’re an art lover, visiting the University of San Diego is a great way to take in a wide variety of art exhibitions for free. Students are always showcasing their work, so every visit will be different from the last.

Summer Movies in the Park: Looking for something to do in San Diego at night? During the summer, there are many parks that show movies for free! No matter your movie taste, you’re sure to find a great summer flick playing at one of the participating locations.

Mission Beach Boardwalk: You don’t need to spend money to enjoy the the boardwalk, a classic San Diego activity. It snakes along the beach for 3.5 miles, and is perfect for biking, walking, rollerblading, or even people watching. Thanks to the balmy San Diego weather, this is a year-round favorite.

San Diego Farmers’ Markets: While you’ll have to pay for goods at a farmers market, there’s always plenty of free entertainment and free samples! Check out the variety of San Diego County Certified Farmers’ Markets to find one near you!

Enjoy All There Is to Do in San Diego

There are plenty of cheap things to do in San Diego, but nothing beats free fun. Be sure to enjoy all the budget-friendly fun there is to be had, and learn more about things to do in Kearny Mesa as well! From favorite local restaurants to plenty of day trip options in the area, there’s no shortage of entertainment. Need more ideas? Rely on the local experts at Kearny Mesa Acura!